United Nations University Innovation and Education Programme Internship 2026–2027 in Japan: Paid UN Internship on AI, Sustainability, and Higher Education

<p data-start="162" data-end="609">Are you a student or recent graduate interested in <strong data-start="213" data-end="312">artificial intelligence, education, sustainability, international development, or public policy</strong>? The <strong data-start="318" data-end="353">United Nations University (UNU)</strong> is now accepting applications for its <strong data-start="392" data-end="457">Innovation and Education (IVE) Programme Internship 2026–2027</strong>, an exciting opportunity to work at the <strong data-start="498" data-end="588">United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS)</strong> in <strong data-start="592" data-end="608">Tokyo, Japan</strong>.</p> <p data-start="611" data-end="1069">This full-time internship provides aspiring professionals with the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge international initiatives at the intersection of <strong data-start="769" data-end="845">AI, sustainable development, higher education, and United Nations policy</strong>. Interns will gain practical experience supporting international research networks, organizing global events, producing knowledge products, and contributing to projects that advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</p> <p data-start="1071" data-end="1263">The internship runs from <strong data-start="1096" data-end="1146">15 September 2026 to 15 March 2027 (tentative)</strong> and includes a <strong data-start="1162" data-end="1181">monthly stipend</strong> for eligible interns who are not receiving financial support from another source.</p> <p data-start="1265" data-end="1323">Applications close on <strong data-start="1287" data-end="1323">7 September 2026 (11:59 PM JST).</strong></p> <h1 data-section-id="1ks4va6" data-start="1330" data-end="1373">About the United Nations University (UNU)</h1> <p data-start="1375" data-end="1524">The <strong data-start="1379" data-end="1414">United Nations University (UNU)</strong> is the academic and research arm of the United Nations. Established more than fifty years ago, UNU serves as:</p> <ul data-start="1526" data-end="1644"> <li data-section-id="a3gc82" data-start="1526" data-end="1547">A global think tank</li> <li data-section-id="1d4h6is" data-start="1548" data-end="1586">A postgraduate teaching organization</li> <li data-section-id="13u6yje" data-start="1587" data-end="1644">A research institution within the United Nations System</li> </ul> <p data-start="1646" data-end="1796">UNU conducts policy-oriented research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination that supports the goals and principles of the United Nations.</p> <p data-start="1798" data-end="1886">Its work contributes to solving some of the world&#8217;s most pressing challenges, including:</p> <ul data-start="1888" data-end="2031"> <li data-section-id="4j828m" data-start="1888" data-end="1913">Sustainable development</li> <li data-section-id="1bitp9d" data-start="1914" data-end="1930">Human security</li> <li data-section-id="1mt8kpg" data-start="1931" data-end="1953">Economic development</li> <li data-section-id="kgh4mt" data-start="1954" data-end="1970">Climate change</li> <li data-section-id="n0dh7m" data-start="1971" data-end="1982">Education</li> <li data-section-id="sli80c" data-start="1983" data-end="1998">Peacebuilding</li> <li data-section-id="zno41x" data-start="1999" data-end="2011">Innovation</li> <li data-section-id="1c3zqtp" data-start="2012" data-end="2031">Global governance</li> </ul> <p data-start="2033" data-end="2170">Today, UNU operates research institutes in <strong data-start="2076" data-end="2092">12 countries</strong>, with experts working across all <strong data-start="2126" data-end="2170">17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</strong></p> <p data-start="2172" data-end="2215">The organization collaborates closely with:</p> <ul data-start="2217" data-end="2348"> <li data-section-id="cgq9jy" data-start="2217" data-end="2242">United Nations agencies</li> <li data-section-id="1kj0we" data-start="2243" data-end="2256">Governments</li> <li data-section-id="10gwr6y" data-start="2257" data-end="2271">Universities</li> <li data-section-id="1t31nfa" data-start="2272" data-end="2295">Research institutions</li> <li data-section-id="18xa23e" data-start="2296" data-end="2325">International organizations</li> <li data-section-id="1ten52" data-start="2326" data-end="2348">Development partners</li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="1elp3kj" data-start="2355" data-end="2370">About UNU-IAS</h1> <p data-start="2372" data-end="2495">The internship is hosted by the <strong data-start="2404" data-end="2494">United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS)</strong>.</p> <p data-start="2497" data-end="2606">Based at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo, UNU-IAS is one of the thirteen research institutes within the UNU system.</p> <p data-start="2608" data-end="2657">Its mission is to advance sustainability through:</p> <ul data-start="2659" data-end="2768"> <li data-section-id="fe6h3j" data-start="2659" data-end="2685">Policy-relevant research</li> <li data-section-id="12xcjbj" data-start="2686" data-end="2708">Capacity development</li> <li data-section-id="1v6nxj7" data-start="2709" data-end="2738">Interdisciplinary education</li> <li data-section-id="6ykrkt" data-start="2739" data-end="2768">International collaboration</li> </ul> <p data-start="2770" data-end="2794">Research focuses on the:</p> <ul data-start="2796" data-end="2918"> <li data-section-id="tbo2kf" data-start="2796" data-end="2840">Environmental dimensions of sustainability</li> <li data-section-id="1cjny20" data-start="2841" data-end="2880">Economic dimensions of sustainability</li> <li data-section-id="g3d1r0" data-start="2881" data-end="2918">Social dimensions of sustainability</li> </ul> <p data-start="2920" data-end="3106">UNU-IAS also develops future international leaders through postgraduate education and partnerships with scholars and professionals worldwide, particularly across <strong data-start="3082" data-end="3092">Africa</strong> and <strong data-start="3097" data-end="3105">Asia</strong>.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1s7zj2x" data-start="3113" data-end="3165">About the Innovation and Education (IVE) Programme</h1> <p data-start="3167" data-end="3258">The Innovation and Education (IVE) Programme promotes research and practical approaches to:</p> <ul data-start="3260" data-end="3370"> <li data-section-id="18yq64d" data-start="3260" data-end="3282">Innovative education</li> <li data-section-id="159btzq" data-start="3283" data-end="3304">Inclusive education</li> <li data-section-id="pfhnio" data-start="3305" data-end="3324">Lifelong learning</li> <li data-section-id="v5b16c" data-start="3325" data-end="3370">Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)</li> </ul> <p data-start="3372" data-end="3413">The programme supports implementation of:</p> <ul data-start="3415" data-end="3553"> <li data-section-id="1c8ec7z" data-start="3415" data-end="3486">UNESCO&#8217;s Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) for 2030 Roadmap</li> <li data-section-id="qcb3f9" data-start="3487" data-end="3519">Greening Education Partnership</li> <li data-section-id="1xctwst" data-start="3520" data-end="3553">Evidence-based education policy</li> </ul> <p data-start="3555" data-end="3642">Its goal is to help translate global education priorities into meaningful local action.</p> <h1 data-section-id="76oisv" data-start="3649" data-end="3679">About the Internship Project</h1> <p data-start="3681" data-end="3745">The selected intern will support a newly established initiative:</p> <h2 data-section-id="162ynu2" data-start="3747" data-end="3784">Futures of Higher Education and AI</h2> <p data-start="3786" data-end="3914">The internship contributes to the work of the new <strong data-start="3836" data-end="3905">UN Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) Action Group</strong>, titled:</p> <p data-start="3916" data-end="3957"><strong data-start="3916" data-end="3957">&#8220;Futures of Higher Education and AI.&#8221;</strong></p> <p data-start="3959" data-end="4055">The Action Group brings together AI experts from higher education institutions around the world.</p> <p data-start="4057" data-end="4179">Its objective is to strengthen global understanding of how artificial intelligence can accelerate sustainable development.</p> <h1 data-section-id="112b0t8" data-start="4186" data-end="4213">Core Areas of the Project</h1> <p data-start="4215" data-end="4261">The Action Group focuses on four major themes:</p> <h2 data-section-id="1q9zu9g" data-start="4263" data-end="4299">1. AI in Research and Development</h2> <p data-start="4301" data-end="4327">Exploring how AI supports:</p> <ul data-start="4329" data-end="4384"> <li data-section-id="1od4uuq" data-start="4329" data-end="4350">Scientific research</li> <li data-section-id="zno41x" data-start="4351" data-end="4363">Innovation</li> <li data-section-id="66qmvn" data-start="4364" data-end="4384">Knowledge creation</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="bfrk6q" data-start="4391" data-end="4424">2. AI in Teaching and Learning</h2> <p data-start="4426" data-end="4455">Examining AI applications in:</p> <ul data-start="4457" data-end="4545"> <li data-section-id="7rat96" data-start="4457" data-end="4480">Learning environments</li> <li data-section-id="zzf0rj" data-start="4481" data-end="4499">Teaching methods</li> <li data-section-id="12qbbt2" data-start="4500" data-end="4524">Curriculum development</li> <li data-section-id="nh8jgc" data-start="4525" data-end="4545">Student engagement</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="j9qjxc" data-start="4552" data-end="4585">3. AI in University Management</h2> <p data-start="4587" data-end="4609">Studying AI&#8217;s role in:</p> <ul data-start="4611" data-end="4679"> <li data-section-id="1scjrly" data-start="4611" data-end="4627">Administration</li> <li data-section-id="1lwwkzm" data-start="4628" data-end="4654">Institutional management</li> <li data-section-id="1jh5493" data-start="4655" data-end="4679">Operational efficiency</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="fhsoy2" data-start="4686" data-end="4723">4. AI Ethics, Safety and Inclusion</h2> <p data-start="4725" data-end="4763">Addressing important issues including:</p> <ul data-start="4765" data-end="4874"> <li data-section-id="13wlhic" data-start="4765" data-end="4781">Responsible AI</li> <li data-section-id="1lrr5fh" data-start="4782" data-end="4800">Human-centred AI</li> <li data-section-id="31j0o" data-start="4801" data-end="4809">Ethics</li> <li data-section-id="1hm3zrx" data-start="4810" data-end="4823">Inclusivity</li> <li data-section-id="69sjn8" data-start="4824" data-end="4832">Safety</li> <li data-section-id="bpa0rt" data-start="4833" data-end="4860">Global South perspectives</li> <li data-section-id="q1w9cp" data-start="4861" data-end="4874">Women in AI</li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="1v7saqd" data-start="4881" data-end="4927">Collaboration with Higher Education Networks</h1> <p data-start="4929" data-end="5040">The project also strengthens collaboration with two important higher education networks coordinated by UNU-IAS.</p> <p data-start="5042" data-end="5056">These include:</p> <h3 data-section-id="o3l0b2" data-start="5058" data-end="5073"><a href="http://prosper.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ProSPER.Net</a></h3> <p data-start="5075" data-end="5158">A regional Asia-Pacific network promoting sustainability in postgraduate education.</p> <h3 data-section-id="13k2f09" data-start="5160" data-end="5196">SDG-University Platform (SDG-UP)</h3> <p data-start="5198" data-end="5296">A Japanese higher education network advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through education.</p> <p data-start="5298" data-end="5397">Together with HESI, these networks contribute to knowledge sharing and international collaboration.</p> <h1 data-section-id="17m58x8" data-start="5404" data-end="5434">Knowledge Products Developed</h1> <p data-start="5436" data-end="5523">Throughout the internship, the project develops numerous knowledge products, including:</p> <ul data-start="5525" data-end="5665"> <li data-section-id="9aomsk" data-start="5525" data-end="5543">Podcast episodes</li> <li data-section-id="j5w0p1" data-start="5544" data-end="5568">International webinars</li> <li data-section-id="1op0duv" data-start="5569" data-end="5583">Publications</li> <li data-section-id="1pg93bg" data-start="5584" data-end="5614">Capacity-building activities</li> <li data-section-id="ec7qrn" data-start="5615" data-end="5633">Policy dialogues</li> <li data-section-id="16ixmr2" data-start="5634" data-end="5665">United Nations event sessions</li> </ul> <p data-start="5667" data-end="5691">These outputs emphasize:</p> <ul data-start="5693" data-end="5816"> <li data-section-id="yhmts0" data-start="5693" data-end="5697">AI</li> <li data-section-id="4j828m" data-start="5698" data-end="5723">Sustainable development</li> <li data-section-id="11iykrf" data-start="5724" data-end="5742">Higher education</li> <li data-section-id="1lrr5fh" data-start="5743" data-end="5761">Human-centred AI</li> <li data-section-id="bpa0rt" data-start="5762" data-end="5789">Global South perspectives</li> <li data-section-id="1cuwztg" data-start="5790" data-end="5816">Women&#8217;s leadership in AI</li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="hqo010" data-start="5823" data-end="5852">Internship Responsibilities</h1> <p data-start="5854" data-end="5927">The intern works under the supervision of the Academic Programme Officer.</p> <p data-start="5929" data-end="5960">Major responsibilities include:</p> <h2 data-section-id="6b9cr5" data-start="5962" data-end="6018">1. Supporting International Higher Education Networks</h2> <p data-start="6020" data-end="6068">The intern will assist with coordination across:</p> <ul data-start="6070" data-end="6099"> <li data-section-id="1j3s6fz" data-start="6070" data-end="6076">HESI</li> <li data-section-id="16qxti8" data-start="6077" data-end="6090">ProSPER.Net</li> <li data-section-id="5r4y0g" data-start="6091" data-end="6099">SDG-UP</li> </ul> <p data-start="6101" data-end="6126">Responsibilities include:</p> <ul data-start="6128" data-end="6258"> <li data-section-id="1azo2bm" data-start="6128" data-end="6149">Scheduling meetings</li> <li data-section-id="aasqwc" data-start="6150" data-end="6170">Attending meetings</li> <li data-section-id="jocuaw" data-start="6171" data-end="6198">Preparing meeting minutes</li> <li data-section-id="f5n3vb" data-start="6199" data-end="6226">Monitoring communications</li> <li data-section-id="l92n7g" data-start="6227" data-end="6258">Following up on action points</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="1k6o3gz" data-start="6265" data-end="6302">2. Supporting International Events</h2> <p data-start="6304" data-end="6333">Interns assist in organizing:</p> <ul data-start="6335" data-end="6371"> <li data-section-id="17bws5b" data-start="6335" data-end="6345">Webinars</li> <li data-section-id="1sqrrwe" data-start="6346" data-end="6357">Workshops</li> <li data-section-id="j9w3ol" data-start="6358" data-end="6371">Conferences</li> </ul> <p data-start="6373" data-end="6387">Tasks include:</p> <ul data-start="6389" data-end="6486"> <li data-section-id="1sah40k" data-start="6389" data-end="6410">Preparing materials</li> <li data-section-id="1n994f7" data-start="6411" data-end="6438">Coordinating participants</li> <li data-section-id="1pxem4c" data-start="6439" data-end="6463">Drafting event reports</li> <li data-section-id="mqplh0" data-start="6464" data-end="6486">Supporting logistics</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="14q2k4t" data-start="6493" data-end="6527">3. Producing Knowledge Products</h2> <p data-start="6529" data-end="6554">The intern helps produce:</p> <ul data-start="6556" data-end="6608"> <li data-section-id="2pbmg5" data-start="6556" data-end="6566">Podcasts</li> <li data-section-id="290w6d" data-start="6567" data-end="6584">Webinar content</li> <li data-section-id="m9zm7q" data-start="6585" data-end="6608">Educational resources</li> </ul> <p data-start="6610" data-end="6635">Responsibilities include:</p> <ul data-start="6637" data-end="6755"> <li data-section-id="1x2emqs" data-start="6637" data-end="6659">Identifying speakers</li> <li data-section-id="4867cv" data-start="6660" data-end="6688">Communicating with experts</li> <li data-section-id="1mcp6yj" data-start="6689" data-end="6700">Promotion</li> <li data-section-id="7c38nc" data-start="6701" data-end="6721">Recording sessions</li> <li data-section-id="zxi1p" data-start="6722" data-end="6739">Editing content</li> <li data-section-id="986egn" data-start="6740" data-end="6755">Dissemination</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="1xjt9d7" data-start="6762" data-end="6796">4. Supporting Project Reporting</h2> <p data-start="6798" data-end="6820">Interns contribute by:</p> <ul data-start="6822" data-end="6931"> <li data-section-id="11k99l1" data-start="6822" data-end="6848">Drafting project reports</li> <li data-section-id="1p22s24" data-start="6849" data-end="6873">Documenting activities</li> <li data-section-id="flz5xl" data-start="6874" data-end="6893">Recording outputs</li> <li data-section-id="mul19y" data-start="6894" data-end="6931">Maintaining organized project files</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="55akm8" data-start="6938" data-end="6965">5. Other Assigned Duties</h2> <p data-start="6967" data-end="7029">Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the supervisor.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1dz4v2w" data-start="7036" data-end="7059">Required Competencies</h1> <p data-start="7061" data-end="7115">UNU seeks candidates who embody United Nations values.</p> <h2 data-section-id="1uywz7q" data-start="7117" data-end="7131">Core Values</h2> <p data-start="7133" data-end="7163">Applicants should demonstrate:</p> <ul data-start="7165" data-end="7210"> <li data-section-id="u6lvfy" data-start="7165" data-end="7176">Inclusion</li> <li data-section-id="1b8u03z" data-start="7177" data-end="7188">Integrity</li> <li data-section-id="1h9i3w9" data-start="7189" data-end="7199">Humility</li> <li data-section-id="1hey19v" data-start="7200" data-end="7210">Humanity</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="1p6t5f5" data-start="7217" data-end="7239">Expected Behaviours</h2> <p data-start="7241" data-end="7281">Successful candidates should be able to:</p> <ul data-start="7283" data-end="7438"> <li data-section-id="59wb3m" data-start="7283" data-end="7308">Collaborate effectively</li> <li data-section-id="1g9lgq1" data-start="7309" data-end="7330">Analyse information</li> <li data-section-id="1qpk4q3" data-start="7331" data-end="7351">Plan strategically</li> <li data-section-id="q6mm7u" data-start="7352" data-end="7377">Deliver quality results</li> <li data-section-id="10kghlw" data-start="7378" data-end="7398">Learn continuously</li> <li data-section-id="xj6lv9" data-start="7399" data-end="7416">Adapt to change</li> <li data-section-id="1v68edi" data-start="7417" data-end="7438">Innovate creatively</li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="1jwi5nr" data-start="7445" data-end="7471">Eligibility Requirements</h1> <p data-start="7473" data-end="7535">Applicants should meet the following educational requirements.</p> <h2 data-section-id="nq27tb" data-start="7537" data-end="7549">Education</h2> <p data-start="7551" data-end="7603">Candidates should study one of the following fields:</p> <ul data-start="7605" data-end="7743"> <li data-section-id="1qfianv" data-start="7605" data-end="7630">Artificial Intelligence</li> <li data-section-id="1ocmvwi" data-start="7631" data-end="7655">Information Technology</li> <li data-section-id="n0dh7m" data-start="7656" data-end="7667">Education</li> <li data-section-id="117vjq" data-start="7668" data-end="7693">Sustainable Development</li> <li data-section-id="xnb28x" data-start="7694" data-end="7721">International Development</li> <li data-section-id="dl15su" data-start="7722" data-end="7743">Related disciplines</li> </ul> <p data-start="7745" data-end="7766">Applicants must also:</p> <ul data-start="7768" data-end="7984"> <li data-section-id="mzblrg" data-start="7768" data-end="7825">Be in the final year of an undergraduate degree, <strong data-start="7819" data-end="7825">or</strong></li> <li data-section-id="rnvuva" data-start="7826" data-end="7871">Be enrolled in a graduate programme, <strong data-start="7865" data-end="7871">or</strong></li> <li data-section-id="1uuigut" data-start="7872" data-end="7984">Have graduated within the previous two years from: <ul data-start="7927" data-end="7984"> <li data-section-id="89bohg" data-start="7927" data-end="7946">Bachelor&#8217;s degree</li> <li data-section-id="i9y3g4" data-start="7949" data-end="7966">Master&#8217;s degree</li> <li data-section-id="k17wfc" data-start="7969" data-end="7984">PhD programme</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="1fdejrg" data-start="7991" data-end="8007">Desired Skills</h1> <p data-start="8009" data-end="8041">Ideal applicants should possess:</p> <ul data-start="8043" data-end="8317"> <li data-section-id="1gahz87" data-start="8043" data-end="8070">Excellent research skills</li> <li data-section-id="37j77b" data-start="8071" data-end="8100">Strong analytical abilities</li> <li data-section-id="1mbcxng" data-start="8101" data-end="8130">High-quality writing skills</li> <li data-section-id="b4pyrg" data-start="8131" data-end="8154">Organizational skills</li> <li data-section-id="ghoxzp" data-start="8155" data-end="8186">Event coordination experience</li> <li data-section-id="qc877u" data-start="8187" data-end="8209">Communication skills</li> <li data-section-id="1k4z1n5" data-start="8210" data-end="8243">Experience drafting newsletters</li> <li data-section-id="7vr68d" data-start="8244" data-end="8278">Social media content development</li> <li data-section-id="62ple6" data-start="8279" data-end="8296">Event summaries</li> <li data-section-id="1u66hxf" data-start="8297" data-end="8317">Outreach materials</li> </ul> <p data-start="8319" data-end="8378">Applicants should also have familiarity with tools such as:</p> <ul data-start="8380" data-end="8449"> <li data-section-id="16xazwz" data-start="8380" data-end="8387">Canva</li> <li data-section-id="1396ji3" data-start="8388" data-end="8401">Adobe Suite</li> <li data-section-id="afv5i4" data-start="8402" data-end="8449">Similar design and content creation platforms</li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="61mdlk" data-start="8456" data-end="8479">Language Requirements</h1> <p data-start="8481" data-end="8509">Applicants must demonstrate:</p> <ul data-start="8511" data-end="8565"> <li data-section-id="ln3wu1" data-start="8511" data-end="8538">Excellent written English</li> <li data-section-id="140v3ki" data-start="8539" data-end="8565">Excellent spoken English</li> </ul> <p data-start="8567" data-end="8652">Knowledge of another UN language, including <strong data-start="8611" data-end="8623">Japanese</strong>, is considered an advantage.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1gl8h3k" data-start="8659" data-end="8680">Internship Duration</h1> <p data-start="8682" data-end="8710">Tentative internship period:</p> <p data-start="8712" data-end="8749"><strong data-start="8712" data-end="8749">15 September 2026 – 15 March 2027</strong></p> <p data-start="8751" data-end="8774">Expected starting date:</p> <p data-start="8776" data-end="8794"><strong data-start="8776" data-end="8794">September 2026</strong></p> <h1 data-section-id="15alw6i" data-start="8801" data-end="8823">Working Arrangements</h1> <p data-start="8825" data-end="8844">This internship is:</p> <ul data-start="8846" data-end="8919"> <li data-section-id="ux6dnn" data-start="8846" data-end="8857">Full-time</li> <li data-section-id="1t4g5uu" data-start="8858" data-end="8877">35 hours per week</li> <li data-section-id="1w52dcf" data-start="8878" data-end="8887">On-site</li> <li data-section-id="1uf4w6z" data-start="8888" data-end="8919">Based at UNU-IAS Headquarters</li> </ul> <p data-start="8921" data-end="8930">Location:</p> <p data-start="8932" data-end="8957"><strong data-start="8932" data-end="8957">Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan</strong></p> <h1 data-section-id="wwkkrk" data-start="8964" data-end="8983">Financial Support</h1> <p data-start="8985" data-end="9041">Eligible interns receive a <strong data-start="9012" data-end="9031">monthly stipend</strong> from UNU.</p> <p data-start="9043" data-end="9085">The stipend is intended to help subsidize:</p> <ul data-start="9087" data-end="9110"> <li data-section-id="tgjdz6" data-start="9087" data-end="9110">Basic living expenses</li> </ul> <p data-start="9112" data-end="9128">Important notes:</p> <ul data-start="9130" data-end="9290"> <li data-section-id="1it4zu4" data-start="9130" data-end="9176">The amount varies according to duty station.</li> <li data-section-id="1l0fvjn" data-start="9177" data-end="9261">Interns receiving financial support from another organization may not be eligible.</li> <li data-section-id="nb0fd7" data-start="9262" data-end="9290">Stipends are paid monthly.</li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="plflsp" data-start="9297" data-end="9311">How to Apply</h1> <p data-start="9313" data-end="9400">Applicants should submit their application through the official UNU recruitment portal.</p> <p data-start="9402" data-end="9427">The application includes:</p> <ol data-start="9429" data-end="9547"> <li data-section-id="4jvold" data-start="9429" data-end="9451">Online application.</li> <li data-section-id="70d9sv" data-start="9452" data-end="9468"><a href="https://jpn01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Funu.edu%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2F2024-02%2FUNU-P11_Personal-History-Form.docx&amp;data=05%7C02%7Crvandasan%40unu.edu%7C0da8aac2f5b34d0060b108dc30fa35b9%7Cb9fc8add5f9141cca6c8f00214e01d4b%7C0%7C0%7C638439098415716552%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=GFMmcc7T7QfiXkzH98JPjMqFJyZ0F8NpT8mYd%2FbMfTc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UNU P11 Form</a>.</li> <li data-section-id="xt03gc" data-start="9469" data-end="9515">Motivation statement (within the P11 form).</li> <li data-section-id="kx2e6w" data-start="9516" data-end="9547">Position-specific questions.</li> </ol> <p data-start="9549" data-end="9594">Candidates invited to interview must provide:</p> <ul data-start="9596" data-end="9656"> <li data-section-id="ni1lxb" data-start="9596" data-end="9612">Transcript, or</li> <li data-section-id="1m260od" data-start="9613" data-end="9656">Proof of enrolment or educational status.</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://careers.unu.edu/o/innovation-and-education-programme-intern" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Start Your Application HERE!</strong></a></p> <h1 data-section-id="1b6qlrh" data-start="9663" data-end="9682">Selection Process</h1> <p data-start="9684" data-end="9717">Qualified applicants may undergo:</p> <ul data-start="9719" data-end="9800"> <li data-section-id="ghn0p7" data-start="9719" data-end="9732">Desk review</li> <li data-section-id="1w61mdo" data-start="9733" data-end="9761">Competency-based interview</li> <li data-section-id="d2hir" data-start="9762" data-end="9781">Background checks</li> <li data-section-id="141b5au" data-start="9782" data-end="9800">Reference checks</li> </ul> <p>You may wish to refer to the <strong><u><a href="https://i.unu.edu/media/unu.edu/page/24952/Values-and-Behaviours-Framework_Final.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UN Values and Behaviours Framework</a></u></strong> for more information.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1bqljif" data-start="9807" data-end="9824">Important Dates</h1> <div class="TyagGW_tableContainer"> <div class="group TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit" tabindex="-1"> <table class="w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)" style="width: 590px;" data-start="9826" data-end="10039"> <thead data-start="9826" data-end="9845"> <tr data-start="9826" data-end="9845"> <th class="last:pe-10" style="width: 213.111px;" data-start="9826" data-end="9837" data-col-size="sm">Activity</th> <th class="last:pe-10" style="width: 362.222px;" data-start="9837" data-end="9845" data-col-size="md">Date</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody data-start="9867" data-end="10039"> <tr data-start="9867" data-end="9902"> <td style="width: 213.111px;" data-start="9867" data-end="9884" data-col-size="sm">Expected Start</td> <td style="width: 362.222px;" data-start="9884" data-end="9902" data-col-size="md">September 2026</td> </tr> <tr data-start="9903" data-end="9972"> <td style="width: 213.111px;" data-start="9903" data-end="9923" data-col-size="sm">Internship Period</td> <td style="width: 362.222px;" data-start="9923" data-end="9972" data-col-size="md">15 September 2026 – 15 March 2027 (tentative)</td> </tr> <tr data-start="9973" data-end="10039"> <td style="width: 213.111px;" data-start="9973" data-end="10000" data-col-size="sm"><strong data-start="9975" data-end="9999">Application Deadline</strong></td> <td style="width: 362.222px;" data-col-size="md" data-start="10000" data-end="10039"><strong data-start="10002" data-end="10037">7 September 2026 (11:59 PM JST)</strong></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div> <h1 data-section-id="1kc5t8k" data-start="10046" data-end="10061">Special Notes</h1> <p data-start="10063" data-end="10100">Applicants should note the following:</p> <ul data-start="10102" data-end="10285"> <li data-section-id="1rrwazq" data-start="10102" data-end="10160">UNU <strong data-start="10108" data-end="10139">does not sponsor work visas</strong> for this internship.</li> <li data-section-id="132b9gv" data-start="10161" data-end="10223">Interns are <strong data-start="10175" data-end="10222">not considered international civil servants</strong>.</li> <li data-section-id="ry40qw" data-start="10224" data-end="10285">Interns are <strong data-start="10238" data-end="10259">not staff members</strong> under the UN Staff Rules.</li> </ul> <p data-start="10287" data-end="10329">UNU strongly encourages applications from:</p> <ul data-start="10331" data-end="10455"> <li data-section-id="17b7v5i" data-start="10331" data-end="10338">Women</li> <li data-section-id="1f9s1p2" data-start="10339" data-end="10366">Persons with disabilities</li> <li data-section-id="190xebb" data-start="10367" data-end="10405">Candidates from developing countries</li> <li data-section-id="1vye2dh" data-start="10406" data-end="10455">Applicants of all nationalities and backgrounds</li> </ul> <p data-start="10457" data-end="10505">UNU maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding:</p> <ul data-start="10507" data-end="10587"> <li data-section-id="1n0hwvq" data-start="10507" data-end="10526">Sexual harassment</li> <li data-section-id="1wayjhi" data-start="10527" data-end="10541">Exploitation</li> <li data-section-id="16yqzew" data-start="10542" data-end="10549">Abuse</li> <li data-section-id="zpzr09" data-start="10550" data-end="10566">Discrimination</li> <li data-section-id="1bucy9c" data-start="10567" data-end="10587">Abuse of authority</li> </ul> <p data-start="10589" data-end="10737">Applicants should also be aware that <strong data-start="10626" data-end="10679">UNU never charges application or recruitment fees</strong>. Any request for payment should be treated as fraudulent.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1e5g22m" data-start="10744" data-end="10766">Why You Should Apply</h1> <p data-start="10768" data-end="11073">The Innovation and Education Programme Internship offers an outstanding opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain first-hand experience within the United Nations system while contributing to globally significant work on artificial intelligence, education, sustainability, and higher education.</p> <p data-start="11075" data-end="11317">Interns will collaborate with international experts, contribute to policy-relevant research, help organize high-level events, produce knowledge products, and strengthen their professional skills in an international, multicultural environment.</p> <p data-start="11319" data-end="11648">For aspiring professionals interested in AI, sustainable development, education policy, or international cooperation, this internship provides valuable exposure to the work of the United Nations while building experience that can support future careers in global development, research, education, and international organizations.</p> <p data-start="11319" data-end="11648">Visit <a href="https://careers.unu.edu/o/innovation-and-education-programme-intern" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>HERE</strong></a> to learn more about the United Nations University Innovation and Education Programme Internship.</p> <h1 data-section-id="fsb6xx" data-start="11650" data-end="11662">Conclusion</h1> <p data-start="11664" data-end="12040">The United Nations University Innovation and Education Programme Internship 2026–2027 is an exceptional opportunity for students and recent graduates seeking meaningful experience in the United Nations system. Based at UNU-IAS in Tokyo, the internship places participants at the forefront of global discussions on artificial intelligence, sustainability, and higher education.</p> <p data-start="12042" data-end="12593">Through involvement in international research networks, policy dialogues, webinars, podcasts, publications, and capacity-building initiatives, interns will gain practical skills while contributing to projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Combined with a monthly stipend for eligible interns, hands-on responsibilities, and exposure to a global network of researchers and policymakers, this internship offers a strong foundation for those aspiring to careers in international development, education, sustainability, or AI governance.</p> <p data-start="12595" data-end="12751">Interested candidates should prepare their application materials early and submit their application before the <strong data-start="12706" data-end="12741">7 September 2026 (11:59 PM JST)</strong> deadline.</p> <p data-start="12595" data-end="12751"><strong>Discover more global <a href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/?s=internship" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Internship</a> and <a href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/?s=United+Nations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UN</a> opportunities on Opportunities For Youth (OFY).</strong></p> <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/2026/08/05/united-nations-university-junior-research-consultant-jobs-2026-in-portugal-entry-level-un-careers-in-digital-governance-and-public-sector-innovation/">United Nations University Innovation and Education Programme Internship 2026–2027 in Japan: Paid UN Internship on AI, Sustainability, and Higher Education</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org">Opportunities for Youth</a>.</p>